The Newark Public Library will hold more than a dozen programs during February, highlighting its "Black History Month" celebration. In addition to the programs, two exhibitions are on view throughout February:
Original Prints by African-American Artists Plus Unique and Related Works on Paper
(second-floor gallery) and Travel Posters From Africa, China, India and Taiwan (third-floor gallery). All events are free and open to the public. William J. Dane, the library's Keeper of Prints and Posters, curated both exhibitions from the Special Collections of The Newark Public Library. For answers to general questions and additional information on the exhibitions (only), patrons may call Mr. Dane at (973) 733-7745.

The work of several New Jersey and Newark artists has been especially selected for the
Original Prints exhibition. In addition to prints, the exhibition includes selected autographs, historic posters, signed photograph portraits, books relating the history of African-American art and illustrated books for young people.

Following is a complete listing of the library's February programs. For additional information on the programs (not the exhibitions) patrons may call Herb Williams at (973) 733-3610, or they may visit the library's website at
www.npl.org.

2 A showing and discussion of Legacy, a film that reveals the incredible struggles of an inner-city ghetto family to achieve success against overwhelming odds. A stunning chronicle of three generations of African-American women as they free themselves from welfare and poverty. Auditorium; 2pm

5 A keynote address by author E. Lynn Harris and a roundtable/panel discussion of such topics as Family Issues, Employment, Community Responsibility, Sex Education and Relationships. Centennial Hall; 6pm

6 Join us for "Café Newark-The NPL Juke Joint" for a live history of the blues featuring Cynthia Thomas and Eldrick Bashefull. Auditorium; 6pm

6 The Frances E.W. Harper Literary Society presents a "Black History Month" discussion by Lentworth Gunther, Ph.D. Dr. Gunther's is the director of the "Africana Institute" at Essex County College in Newark. His talk is entitled "The Black Think-Tank." African-American Room; 6:30pm

9 A showing and discussion of Big Mama. This film chronicles an 89-year-old grandmother as she struggles to prove to the Los Angeles child welfare system that she can care for her 9-year-old grandson. Auditorium; 2pm

13 Professionals from CNB and Investment Corp. will discuss becoming financially stable for the future in a talk entitled "Putting Your Finances in Order." Auditorium; 6pm

14 The Library presents a tribute to Billie Holliday with a dual program: a
book lecture and a musical. The lecture will be by David Margolick, author of
Strange Fruit -Billie Holliday, Café Society, and An Early Cry for
Civilrights. The musical, entitled Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill, is part cabaret/part biography, in which Suzzanne Douglas plays legendary jazz singer Billie Holiday in this extraordinary performance featuring the songs that made her famous. Centennial Hall; 6pm

16 A showing and discussion of Out of Obscurity, which is one of the many little known, but nonetheless important, episodes in civil rights history. In the 1930s public facilities were segregated throughout the South. Blacks were banned from using the libraries. Recognizing the importance of public libraries as centers of information and a place where poor people could educate themselves, a handful of brave youths decided to challenge this ban. Auditorium; 2pm

16 Celebrate African-American history on stamps. The Ebony Society of Philatelic Events and Reflections will share an exciting display of African-American stamps past, present, and future. Free information and materials on stamp collecting will be distributed. Auditorium; 3:30pm

19 A program on "Health and Fitness." Speak one on one with health and fitness experts and dietitians to discuss what's right for you. The program includes free blood pressure and body fat testing; also home cooking for health! Centennial Hall; 6pm

21 Enjoy music from the Motor City with "Black Tie." The sultry sounds of this musical group will lead you down memory lane with songs from popular Motown groups. Centennial Hall; 6pm

23 Join storyteller Julie Pasqual in this Hooray for Children program as she brings favorite stories and traditional folktales to life. Centennial Hall; 2pm

25 A "Teens Read Newark" program, featuring native Newarker Jackie Hardrick, in which local high school and college students come together to examine and discuss her novel,
Imani in Young Love and Deception. Lunch will be provided for students. Centennial Hall; 10am

26 Join professional singers from Opera Ebony as they bring you the best of Negro Spirituals and African Folk music. Centennial Hall; 6pm

27 An evening of African-American poetry and spirituals with The Bobby Lewis Ensemble. Be sure to bring your poetry and writings to share. Centennial Hall; 6pm

28 A program of African folk songs, spirituals, gospel and opera presented by the trio
New Renaissance. Centennial Hall; 6pm